3 managers Burnley should consider after Nicky Hayen’s sacking

Burnley have decided to part ways with Nicky Hayen following a disappointing opening to their Championship campaign, leaving the club searching for a new manager capable of turning their fortunes around.

After dropping out of the Premier League, the Clarets were expected to challenge for an immediate return to the top flight. Instead, their performances have fallen well below expectations, with the Turf Moor side collecting just eight points from their first 12 league matches.

Burnley now face an important appointment as they look to revive their season and climb the Championship table. Here are three managers who could be worth considering for the vacant position.

1. Rob Edwards

Rob Edwards could quickly become a candidate for the Burnley job, given his experience of working in the Championship and his previous success in helping clubs achieve their ambitions.

Although his latest spell at Wolverhampton Wanderers did not go according to plan, his earlier work at Middlesbrough and Luton Town provides reasons for Burnley to take an interest.

Edwards demonstrated his ability to get results at Championship level during his time with Luton, guiding the club to promotion to the Premier League. His work at Middlesbrough also showed that he can help a team compete in a demanding division.

Burnley need someone capable of restoring confidence, improving performances and bringing greater consistency to the squad. Edwards’ experience of working with players under pressure could make him a suitable option as the Clarets attempt to get their season back on course.

2. Carlos Corberan

Carlos Corberan is another manager Burnley could consider following his departure from Valencia earlier this season.

The Spaniard’s latest experience in La Liga should not overshadow the impressive work he previously produced in English football. During his time at West Bromwich Albion and Huddersfield Town, Corberan helped both clubs reach the Championship play-offs, demonstrating his ability to organise a competitive side.

While neither team ultimately secured promotion under his leadership, Corberan earned a reputation as a tactically astute coach capable of getting strong performances from his players.

Burnley could benefit from that experience, particularly given their current difficulties. The club need a manager who can improve their overall structure, get more out of the existing squad and establish a clear identity on the pitch.

Corberan also worked with Largie Ramazani during his previous spell at Valencia, potentially offering some familiarity with a player now at Burnley.

If the club are prepared to give him the necessary time and backing, Corberan could be an interesting candidate to help restore their promotion ambitions.

3. Kasper Hjulmand

Kasper Hjulmand would represent a different type of appointment for Burnley, bringing considerable international experience alongside his work in European club football.

The Danish coach became available after leaving Bayer Leverkusen by mutual agreement in June 2026. Before his time in Germany, he established himself as an experienced manager through his work with Denmark’s national team.

Hjulmand guided Denmark to the semi-finals of Euro 2020 and helped the country qualify for two major international tournaments. He also won the Danish Superliga with FC Nordsjaelland in 2012.

His spell at Leverkusen included a sixth-place Bundesliga finish, a run to the Champions League last 16 and an appearance in the DFB-Pokal semi-finals.

Those achievements suggest that Hjulmand could bring tactical discipline and valuable experience to Turf Moor. His previous links with Burnley could also make the possibility of an appointment worth exploring.

However, moving into English league football would present a fresh challenge, particularly given the physical demands and competitiveness of the Championship.

Burnley would need to weigh that risk against the potential benefits of appointing an experienced coach with a strong background in European football. If he adapts quickly to the demands of the division, Hjulmand could prove an ambitious choice.

Who should Burnley appoint?

Burnley’s next managerial appointment could have a significant influence on how the remainder of their season unfolds.

Edwards offers familiarity with the English game and a proven promotion record, while Corberan has demonstrated his ability to build competitive Championship teams. Hjulmand, meanwhile, would bring a different tactical approach and experience from the international and European stages.

The Clarets must decide whether they need a manager who understands the demands of the Championship or someone who can introduce a new direction at Turf Moor.

With their promotion ambitions already under pressure, getting the next appointment right will be crucial.